Dedicated bunch: The team behind Mac World. Their recognition at the Export Excellence Awards 2023 has reinforced their credibility, strengthening trust and market acceptance.
AS Mac World Industries Sdn Bhd sets its sights on 2025, the company is focused on strengthening its global distribution network and reinforcing its position as a leader in halal-certified exports.
A key initiative in its expansion strategy is the establishment of a new vegetable oil packing unit in Malaysia, designed to cater to both local and international markets.
This facility is expected to enhance Mac World’s distribution efficiency, enabling cost-effective global expansion while ensuring compliance with international quality standards.
This strategic expansion comes at a pivotal time, as global demand for halal-certified products continues to rise.
Mac World notes that the halal industry is growing beyond food and beverage into sectors such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, travel and financial services.
Consumers, both Muslim and non-Muslim, are increasingly prioritising ethically sourced and high-quality products, positioning halal goods for sustained growth.
This evolving landscape presents new opportunities across various sectors, reinforcing the importance of halal certification and compliance.
While 2025 presents exciting opportunities, Mac World’s cautious approach in 2024 sets the foundation for sustainable growth.
The company’s total export volume for the year reached 108,450 metric tonne, reflecting a 2.3% decline from 2023, while revenue dropped by 9%, primarily due to lower product prices, shares Mac World.
The company opted for a more selective approach in accepting new trade deals, factoring in geopolitical uncertainties and regional instability.
The Red Sea crisis at the beginning of 2024 led to container shortages, rising freight costs, and shipment delays.
Mac World tackled these disruptions by collaborating with partners to reroute shipments, adjust trade terms and reschedule deliveries.
Despite these challenges, Mac World saw positive growth in India, Pakistan and Africa. The company’s expanded product portfolio – including vegetable oils, specialty fats, animal feeds, and oleochemicals – enabled it to serve a broader customer base.
By extending its reach to over 85 countries across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Africa, Mac World solidified its presence in key international markets.
In addition, last year saw the introduction of crude soybean oil and crude sunflower oil to its export lineup.
These products gained traction in the food processing industry, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, which dominates the global market for these oils.
The addition of these alternatives to palm oil further strengthened Mac World’s market position, particularly during periods of palm oil price volatility.
Mac World’s recognition at the Export Excellence Awards (EEA) 2023 – winning the Special Award for halal products and securing gold in the Agriculture, Food and Beverage category, under the mid-tier and large companies segment – reinforced its credibility in the global market.
As a major exporter in the halal agri-food segment, Mac World benefits from Malaysia’s positioning as a global hub for halal products. These accolades have strengthened its credibility with both customers and financial institutions, enhancing trust and market acceptance.
While 2024 was a year of strategic caution, the coming year presents opportunities for renewed growth.
As global demand for halal-certified and ethically sourced products continues to rise, Mac World is taking steps to adapt to market shifts and strengthen its position in the industry.
The EEA is organised by Star Media Group in partnership with Standard Chartered Malaysia, and PKT Logistics Group as a co-sponsor, and Malaysia External Trade Development Corp as patron. It is audited by BDO.
Businesses interested in competing for the EEA 2024 edition have until March 16, 2025, to submit their entries.
For more information on EEA 2024, go to exportawards.com.my or email eea@thestar.com.my
